If you’re finishing school, thinking about changing careers, or want to avoid university debt, an apprenticeship could be a great option. You get to learn on the job, earn a wage, and gain real qualifications.
Apprenticeships are becoming one of the most important routes into work, with more opportunities than ever before for school and college leavers.
Level 2 – Intermediate Apprenticeship
Intermediate (or level 2) apprenticeships are designed to cover entry-level roles and provide the basic skills and knowledge required to begin a career. If you’re aged 16 and over, they represent the ideal opportunity for you to start your career through hands-on learning outside of the classroom. Typically, over a 12-month period, you’ll work towards qualifications equivalent to GCSEs, usually in the form of a diploma relevant to the industry you’re working in.
Entry requirements will vary from one or more GCSEs to no formal qualifications or experience. Employers are increasingly encouraged to make apprenticeships more accessible, meaning your skills, attitude and potential are just as important as grades. On completion of a level 2 apprenticeship, you can progress within your current role, move on to a level 3 apprenticeship, or continue into further education.
Level 2 apprenticeships are available across a wide range of sectors including agriculture, environmental services, animal care, construction, business administration, transport, engineering, manufacturing, healthcare, science and hospitality.
With increased government focus on early careers, level 2 apprenticeships are becoming more widely available and remain a key starting point for school leavers entering the workplace.
Summary
This is the first step in the apprenticeship ladder and a strong option if you’re aged 16 or over and want to start learning a skill while earning.
Takes about: 12 months
What you get: A qualification equal to GCSEs
Subjects include: Construction, animal care, business, healthcare, hospitality, transport and more
What’s new in 2026 – 2027
- Foundation apprenticeships are being introduced and expanded as a new entry route into apprenticeships (see below)
- Designed for young people aged 16–21 (or up to 24 with additional needs)
- Provide a more supported pathway into work and progression to level 2 or level 3 apprenticeships
- Greater focus on accessibility, meaning you may not need GCSEs and employers will consider your skills and potential
- More funding is being directed towards entry-level apprenticeships, increasing opportunities for school leavers
You don’t always need GCSEs to get in. Employers now look at your skills and experience too.
What is a Foundation apprenticeship?
A Foundation apprenticeship is a new type of Level 2 apprenticeship designed to help young people take their first step into an industry.
It is not a separate apprenticeship level. Foundation apprenticeships are studied at Level 2, which is broadly equal to GCSE level.
They are designed for people with limited wo